The Alumni Association of Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa (formerly The Ibarapa Polytechnic, Eruwa), ushered in a new era of leadership during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the New Lecture Theatre II (NLT II) on the institution’s campus in Eruwa, Oyo State. The meeting, chaired by the Alumni Officer, Mr. Idowu Sunday, who represented the institution’s management, marked a pivotal moment in addressing lingering issues of mismanagement and illegitimacy in the association’s leadership.
In his inaugural address, the newly elected Acting President, Comrade Seun Samson Arelu, explained the circumstances that necessitated the AGM. He described how the alumni body had been under the control of individuals who were not graduates of Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic but instead of The Polytechnic, Ibadan. He said these individuals had manipulated the constitution to serve their interests, neglected the association’s responsibilities, and failed to convene AGMs for four consecutive years. Arelu noted that alumni members had invoked Article 9, Section B, Subsection 3 of the constitution, which empowered the Congress, as the association’s highest decision-making body, to call an AGM in the absence of action by the executive.
He further likened the association’s struggle to reclaim its identity to a story of a young boy who lost his father and entrusted his inheritance to an uncle until he came of age. The uncle, unwilling to release control, was eventually compelled to hand over the inheritance when the boy matured. “In the same way, true graduates of Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic have risen to reclaim their association, ensuring it serves the collective interest,” Arelu remarked.
The AGM, attended by committed 156 alumni, was a moment of unity and decisive action. The participants unanimously agreed on the need for fresh leadership and appointed an acting executive team to steer the association toward growth and revitalization. The newly elected leaders include:
• Acting President: Seun Samson (Arelu)
• Vice President: Alade Azeez Temitope (Alfonzo)
• General Secretary: Isiaka Hammed Olalekan (General)
• Treasurer: Tajudeen Ridwan Emakirun (Mr. Emark)
• Auditor: Ajibike Hammed Olawale (Bosslee)
• Public Relations Officer: Musa Aanuoluwapo Opeyemi (MOPAN)
• Assistant General Secretary: Abdulraheem Abdulkadir Olakunle
• Welfare Director: Akanmu Shukurat
Speaking on behalf of the new leadership, Acting President Arelu outlined the administration’s plans, emphasizing their commitment to fostering unity and accountability. He stated that their first priority would be a comprehensive review of the association’s constitution to ensure it reflects the values and aspirations of genuine alumni. He also highlighted key objectives, including mentoring students, providing scholarships to deserving candidates, fostering industry partnerships, and enhancing the institution’s reputation.
Comrade Musa Aanuoluwapo Opeyemi, the Public Relations Officer, reiterated the new executives’ dedication to inclusivity and transparency. He emphasized that regular AGMs and open communication channels would remain a cornerstone of their administration, ensuring all alumni are engaged in decision-making processes.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Idowu Sunday commended the resilience and determination of the alumni in reclaiming their association. Representing the institution’s management, he lauded the new executives for their vision and urged them to work collaboratively to ensure that the association becomes a valuable partner in the development of the polytechnic.
With this bold step, the Alumni Association of Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic is poised to reclaim its legacy and rebuild its foundation. The AGM has paved the way for meaningful reforms and strengthened ties between the alumni and their alma mater, signaling a promising future for the association.
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